Information and communication technologies for better patient self-management and self-efficacy
by Stamatia Ilioudi, Athina Lazakidou, Maria Tsironi
International Journal of Electronic Healthcare (IJEH), Vol. 5, No. 4, 2010

Abstract: Achieving benefits from the introduction of ICTs as part of processes aimed at building sustainable self-efficacy and self-management is very difficult, not least because of a desire to avoid simply replacing patient dependency on health professionals with dependency on technology. Chronic illnesses require ongoing attention that differs from traditional, encounter-based care for acute illnesses. Patients with chronic illnesses such as asthma, cardiovascular disease, depression, diabetes, heart failure and migraine headaches play a central role in managing the broad array of factors that contribute to their health. Individuals with diabetes, for example, provide close to 95% of their own care. Self-efficacy is enhanced when patients succeed in solving patient-identified problems. Patients with chronic conditions make day-to-day decisions about – self-manage – their illnesses. The paper highlights that in deploying ICTs, it is important to ensure that solutions implemented are based on a detailed understanding of users, their needs and complex interactions with health professionals, the health system and their wider environment.

Online publication date: Fri, 29-Oct-2010

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